3 Way Turnout Control Wiring Question

[one87th]

Thanks Fred, that's what I was hoping to hear.

[fwright]

Extra poles are just that - unused sets of contacts on the switch.  If buying new, one generally specs just the number of poles needed for the application to save money.  If using existing stock, a switch with poles equal to or greater than required by the application is the criteria.

Bottom line:  yes, use it if it physically fits.  Some contacts will go unused.

Fred W

[one87th]

Question for the electronic guru's out there:  Would a 3 position, 4 pole rotary switch work in place of a 3 position, 2 pole switch commonly used in this application?  I just puchased a 4 pole switch, and was hoping to use it, as I just paid $10 in shipping for a $3 item. *@#&^*$